In a candid interview, Santiago Auserón, the iconic frontman of Radio Futura, reflects on the evolution of music and societal norms as the band’s heyday in the 1980s. Auserón critiques the current “marketing of moral rigidity,” suggesting that today’s youth are influenced by a superficial culture that stifles creativity and promotes a narrow-minded outlook. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in both music and literature, asserting that true artistry requires humility and a willingness to adapt. As he navigates the complexities of modern youth culture, Auserón remains a staunch advocate for artistic freedom, urging a return to genuine expression over manufactured trends.
Q&A with Santiago Auserón: Reflections on Music, Culture, and Artistic Freedom
Editor: Santiago, your journey with Radio Futura has profoundly influenced the Spanish music scene. Reflecting on this journey, how do you see the evolution of music in relation to societal norms?
auserón: The 1980s were a transformative time for music in Spain. It was an era of experimentation and breaking away from conventional norms. Today, however, I observe a “marketing of moral rigidity” that shapes how youth engage with music and culture. There’s a pervasive influence of superficiality that restricts creativity. Young artists and audiences are often fed a narrow-minded view of what is acceptable or popular.
Editor: You mention the impact of superficial culture on creativity. Can you elaborate on how this affects artistic expression?
Auserón: Certainly.When the focus shifts to manufactured trends over genuine expression,artists may feel pressured to conform rather than innovate. This environment stifles their ability to explore and present authentic narratives. True artistry requires a constant thirst for knowledge and an openness to adapt, both in music and literature. We must encourage artists to be fearless in their explorations rather than merely aligning with what’s popular or commercially viable.
Editor: This brings us to the importance of continuous learning that you advocate for. How can artists nurture this mindset in their work?
Auserón: Continuous learning is essential for any artist. It involves not just technical skills in music but also understanding the broader world. I encourage artists to dive into literature, history, beliefs, and even other art forms. This fosters a deeper understanding of the human experience, which can fuel their creativity. Humility is key; accepting that there’s always more to learn opens new pathways for expression and innovation.
Editor: Navigating modern youth culture must present its challenges. What advice would you give to young artists trying to carve their own space in today’s music scene?
Auserón: My advice would be to cultivate an authentic voice. Embrace your individuality and don’t shy away from expressing your personal truths.Resist the urge to follow trends; instead, focus on what genuinely resonates with you. Artistic freedom is about finding your unique path, even if it contrasts with mainstream expectations. Make art that provokes thought, invites dialog, and reflects your true self.
Editor: What role do you think critics and audiences play in shaping the music industry?
Auserón: Critics and audiences have a significant impact on artists’ freedom. Supportive critiques that recognize originality can encourage artists to innovate. Conversely, audiences should foster a culture that celebrates diverse expressions rather than one-dimensional trends. Engaging with music intellectually and emotionally creates a more enriching environment for everyone involved. The interplay of these dynamics will help to cultivate a more vibrant and inclusive music culture.
Editor: As we wrap up, what’s your vision for the future of music considering your experiences and observations?
Auserón: I envision a future where artistic freedom prevails, and artists feel empowered to express their diverse experiences and narratives. There’s a need for a cultural shift back to genuine expression rather than conforming to industry pressures. Music should inspire, challenge, and connect us on a deeper level. If we maintain that vision, we can foster a rich tapestry of creativity that truly reflects our society.
By keeping the conversation grounded in the rich context of music, artistic expression, and societal influence, we can highlight the vital roles that authenticity and continuous growth play in shaping the future of creativity.